AI Animation for OnePlus Nord CE3 5G

We designed and produced a captivating AI animation for the OnePlus Nord CE3 5G. This case study details the entire production process, offering an in-depth look at how we achieved this innovative outcome.

A still image from the OnePlus Nord CE3 AI Animation, made using AI assisted production methods.

AI ANIMATION PROJECT OVERVIEW

We want to express our appreciation to Kameron and OnePlus India for inviting us to collaborate on this cutting-edge AI animation production!

This project showcases the seamless integration of AI and the expertise of film professionals and animation artists. From capturing real studio footage to training AI models and refining visuals by skilled VFX artists, every step played a vital role in delivering this stunning animation.

Client

OnePlus India

Agency

Kameron

PRODUCTION PROCESS: AI ANIMATION

Let’s begin with an overview. The production involved a variety of advanced techniques. We filmed all character shots using greenscreen with live actors. We then captured hundreds of reference images to train the AI models, which played a key role in the AI processing phase. Background elements were mainly generated through AI but required significant manual retouching.

The core AI work focused on processing each shot through Stable Diffusion, where we prompted and adjusted the animation style. Style reference libraries and custom character models guided this process. Every shot also underwent detailed compositing and frame-by-frame retouching to ensure quality. This was far from a “one-click” solution, blending AI tools with traditional animation methods.

PRE-PRODUCTION PROCESS: AI ANIMATION

Once the script was finalized, we broke it down into individual shots and created storyboards. Although AI could have handled the storyboards, we opted for traditional digital illustration for greater control and precision. Given the limitations of AI at this stage, relying on human talent was the more efficient option.

STORYBOARDS

AI ANIMATION LOOK DEVELOPMENT: BACKGROUND CONCEPT IMAGES

After storyboard approval, we started developing the visual style. We used Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, Unreal, and Photoshop to create early background versions. Our goal was to achieve an animation-inspired aesthetic. Below are some concept images that shaped the visual tone.

AI ANIMATION PRE-PRODUCTION: CHARACTER DESIGN

Character design required extra attention, especially since the main character was portrayed by a live actor. We focused on details such as clothing, hair, and textures to align with the AI process. The client provided the character designs.

AI ANIMATION PRODUCTION: DATA COLLECTION FOR TRAINING AI MODELS

During filming, we captured hundreds of reference photographs of our actors, documenting every angle, expression, and pose. We ensured proper lighting conditions, as this footage was essential for training realistic AI models. These models were later utilized to transform the filmed characters into their animation counterparts.

AI ANIMATION PRODUCTION - ROUGH VERSION

Screenshot of the "rough edit" of the AI Animation film we made for OnePlus Nord CE3 5G.

Above, you can see a rough version of the film. We filmed each character shot in a greenscreen studio, and these formed the foundation for the character action in the final film. Using VFX, AI processing, and manual touch-ups, we created the polished result. We paid close attention to details such as actor movement, makeup, and clothing to support the AI and post-production stages.

STYLEFRAMES

Once principal photography was complete, we produced styleframes for each shot. We combined preliminary AI-generated elements with processed live-action footage. These styleframes served as visual guides for client approval before moving on to the final shots.

THE USE OF OTHER ANIMATION TECHNIQUES

Several shots required more traditional animation work. For example, in the meditation scene, we used Unreal Engine, followed by style processing with Stable Diffusion.

Similarly, for the wave shots, we created the waves in 3D using simulation techniques, then applied AI style processing through Stable Diffusion. In addition, effects such as lightning and particles were handcrafted to enhance the final result.

AI ANIMATION - CONCLUSION

AI played a central role in achieving this project’s unique look. While we could have opted for traditional frame-by-frame animation, the result would have been quite different, and the process would have taken more time and resources. Even though AI was extensively utilized, skilled artists performed significant manual work on each shot.

By blending AI with human expertise, we completed this production in just seven weeks. This project exemplifies our commitment to combining new technologies with our existing skillset to deliver extraordinary results for our clients.